Monday, January 19, 2009

January 19, 2009

We made the trip to Omaha today. First they checked to see if John’s white blood cell count was high enough to begin the collection of stem cells. As we waited for the results, I read the paper. Both John and I were supposed to have a 5-star day according to our horoscope. And guess what? That’s what it was! John’s count was great, so they called the Red Cross and a nurse came to the hospital to begin his stem cell collection. It took several hours, but we managed to pass the time chatting, reading and such.

Afterwards, they sent us home and called within a couple hours to say the collection put John in rock star status (That’s the nurse’s claim). She said they collected enough stem cells to do about 16 transplants. Wow! We were very happy to hear this since we weren’t really looking forward to going through the whole process again. So now we are in a holding pattern. John has a couple of weeks to recuperate before the actual stem cell transplant. I don’t think I will need to post much of anything until that happens. I’ll just enjoy the next two weeks...living with my husband...the rock star.

Thanks again, and again for all your prayers, thoughts and concern!
Tobi
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15 comments:

  1. pjv6January 19, 2009 at 8:41 PM

    Great news, John and Tobi!!! Enjoy your time together; if I can help with anything, Tobi, let me know. I can volunteer sub like I've done with kindergarten teachers if that would give you some time off together without having to use up your all your leave. Or I'd be glad to help with grading or classroom prep things to free up some of your time. Please let me know. You're such a special family and we wish you all the best.

    Pat, Kaitlin, Sam, and the rest of the Voelker's

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  2. MickiJanuary 20, 2009 at 4:31 AM

    Hurray! I'm so happy! More hugs....

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  3. Tamera BrennanJanuary 20, 2009 at 7:04 AM

    Encore! Encore! This is Great News!
    We will be seeing more show's like this from our Rock Star And his family.

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  4. DeniseJanuary 20, 2009 at 3:35 PM

    That's great news!!

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  5. CindiJanuary 20, 2009 at 5:03 PM

    John, we already KNEW you were a Rock Star! Glad to know the medical field thinks so too! I did well on collection, but you are truly the Champ. Way to go! Did you have to eat Tums during the collect? And did you "buzz" too bad? You're movin' up the chain my friend, and will be doing transplant SOON! We all will remember what we were doing when the 44th President was sworn in. But you guys will REALLY remember!! And will be here to tell your Grandkids I'm sure! Tobi, you are a gem for Blogging...And yes, John, Read-along Rights are good. Hang tough, and let's Encore to the finish! ~ Cindi

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  6. AnieJanuary 21, 2009 at 2:38 PM

    sweet!

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  7. AnonymousJanuary 23, 2009 at 3:19 PM

    Hey John, keep up the rock star status. You are really an inspiration to me and to all of us.

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  8. Bob KJanuary 24, 2009 at 7:52 AM

    Thanks for blogging to keep us updated. Sounds like everything is going as well as can be expected - let Julie or I know if there is anything we can do to help.

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  9. UnknownJanuary 26, 2009 at 1:04 PM

    Thanks for the update, John. We're looking forward to seeing your smiling face back at school. Let me know if I can do anything to help at Humann or Hill.
    Christy S

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  10. TaushaJanuary 26, 2009 at 2:44 PM

    Hey, John. We missed you yesterday but totally understand. The little ones running around had a few runny noses! I am glad things are going so well for you. You are in my heart and prayers. You know that I will do anything you and Tobi need to make life easier! Just let me know.

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  11. UnknownJanuary 27, 2009 at 8:34 PM

    John - we've been thinking about you a lot. Sounds like you are getting some good news from Omaha.
    Nate said the PanGea DVD's came out great - nice work!
    I'll bet your kids miss you at school but it sounds like you have a terrific support team there at home.
    Jim

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  12. Kim CJanuary 28, 2009 at 8:08 AM

    John,
    Missed you at Concert With A Cause, but you were certainly in our hearts and minds as we listened to PanGea and PanGea Prep. As always, they were GREAT!!! Please know there are many at Southwood who keep you, Tobi and your daughters in our prayers and thoughts. Wishing you and Tobi a restful and restorative time leading up to your transplant.
    Kim C

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  13. TaushaJanuary 28, 2009 at 9:30 AM

    John and Tobi:

    Rick E stopped in my office last week and said if you had any questions about what is coming up or just wanted to talk, he would be happy to talk with anyone. I think you have his email address. Just wanted to make sure you knew. I told Tobi on Sunday.

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  14. Tom IneckJanuary 30, 2009 at 2:41 PM

    We always knew you were a rock star! Keep rockin'...

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  15. UnknownFebruary 1, 2009 at 7:27 PM

    You will do great in Omaha - such a wonderful hospital, fabulous physicians and nurses...and most importantly, Tobi at your side! Everything's gone well and will continue to do so. We're sending LOTS of positive thoughts your way!
    All the Ganz Family...Thunder too

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